What is Co.Starters? Their headquarters site states, “CO.STARTERS helps communities build vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystems by equipping them with the best tools and resources needed to support starters of all kinds. Building on our initial grassroots efforts with starters in Chattanooga, Tennessee, CO.STARTERS now has a global reach with thousands participating in our programs annually.”

What is Co.Starters in Birmingham? Its the means by which Create Birmingham is equipping “aspiring entrepreneurs with the insights, relationships, and tools needed to turn their business ideas into action.” The program has graduated owners of such brands as Bruce Lanier of MAKEbhm, Zebbie Carney of Eugene’s Hot Chicken, Kim Lee of Forge, and Tanesha Sims-Summers of Naughty But Nice Kettle Corn Co.

It’s more than a class. It’s a network of entrepreneurs looking to grow for themselves and the communities around them. With over 180 graduates, Co.Starters trusted Create Birmingham to train the first alumni of the program to be facilitators of future cohorts. The first of those to facilitate was our own Jacqueline Jones.

On Monday, November 12th, she along with past graduates of the Co.Starters, Create Birmingham staff, and friends and family of the Birmingham community celebrated the completion of her cohort of 15 individuals making up 13 brands.

We are so proud of Jacqueline for being the first graduate to facilitate a Co.Starters cohort. Her dedication to investing in entrepreneurs and small businesses in Birmingham and the surrounding areas is evident as she continues to find ways to give of her time and knowledge.

Congratulations to all of the graduates on their hard work, to our own Jacqueline Jones on her accomplishment, and the team at Create Birmingham on, once again, guiding another group of promising entrepreneurs through this awesome program!